Trag3dy in France as Two Children, Aged 2 and 4, Discovered in Family Car Amid Severe Heatwave
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Two small children have died in southern France after they were found inside a car during scorching temperatures that reached 38°C.
The youngsters, aged two and four, were discovered Monday afternoon at their grandmother’s home in Carpentras. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but both children were pronounced dead.
Investigation Begins Into How Children Ended Up in Vehicle
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Authorities are working to determine how the children entered the vehicle and how long they had remained inside.
Reports indicate their 33-year-old mother only became aware of the situation after discovering the pair and calling for assistance.
According to Le Parisien, she allegedly told investigators she had forgotten about the children while running errands.
Emergency Services Called Shortly After 1 p.m.
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Police officers and firefighters arrived at the property around 1:10 p.m., according to local reports.
Despite attempts to revive the children, they could not be saved. Authorities have not yet announced whether any charges will be filed.
Europe Endures Intense Heatwave
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Large parts of Europe are currently experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, with some areas of France recording readings above 40°C.
Authorities have increased wildfire preparedness and introduced temporary measures aimed at protecting the public from the dangerous conditions.
Rare Red Warning Issued in Britain
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Across the Channel, the United Kingdom has issued a red health alert as forecasters warn that temperatures could reach levels rarely seen in the country.
Experts say prolonged heatwaves are becoming increasingly common and are posing growing risks to people, agriculture and infrastructure.
Sources
Metro
Le Parisien
La Provence
Met Office
Greenpeace UK
UK Health Security Agency